Drivers can expect delays today at the intersection of Pollock and Shortlidge roads as the University puts another victim of Dutch Elm disease out of its misery.

Work to cut down the elm tree will begin at 7:30 a.m., said University spokeswoman Christina Rambeau, and roads may have to be intermittently closed to clear away large branches.

This particular elm tree has been under watch for many years, she said, speculating that the disease has not spread to any other elms.

"The tree was being pruned and we saw evidence of Dutch Elm," said Ardath Johnson, information coordinator for the Office of the Physical Plant. "The tree was tested and it was confirmed."

Last summer was the last time a diseased elm tree had to be cut down, she said. Elm trees are examined every year for evidence of disease and sprayed in the spring and summer.

Dutch Elm disease is caused by a fungus that enters the tree in two ways, either through beetles that carry the fungus from tree to tree or through root graphs, which occur when the roots of several trees intertwine.